Earlier, 23XI Racing driver Kurt Busch dropped a surprising development, a development that surely forced a tear or two in every NASCAR fan. Busch announced that he was stepping away from full-time racing. The 2004 Cup Series champion has been out of action for a long time, as he recovers from a concussion. Now, the veteran driver appears to be slowly easing back on his career and maybe preparing for retirement.
From the bottom of my heart… Thank you. pic.twitter.com/SbKt3Dmv3v
— Kurt Busch (@KurtBusch) October 15, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Recently, he penned a beautiful statement, announcing his decision. He said, “This NASCAR village is my home and I love it here. 28 years ago, I stood in this area of the desert and took a glamour shot with my first race car. Which I built with my dad and my family. Racing is all I have ever known. My passion, work ethic and persistence have helped me reach all the dreams that a kid could dream. There is not one reason why, or one person, or one circumstance, that has made a stronger difference than another. It has taken everything and everyone. With that said, I know I’m not 100% in my ability to go out and race at the top level in the NASCAR Cup Series. These are the best of the best drivers, and lately, I haven’t felt my best.”
What else did Kurt Busch say and how did the fans react?
According to him, the doctors felt that it was in his best interest to ‘shut it down’ for the rest of the season. In spite of the fact that he has been steadily improving, he is still not up to full capacity. As a result, he has taken the difficult decision to step away from full-time NASCAR racing in 2023. In other words, he is not confident enough to compete in the championship.
We love you Kurt ❤️❤️ Thank you for everything
— Erich K (@TheErich101) October 15, 2022
You are a prime example of what it means to be human, make mistakes and evolve and mature into somebody great. It has been a privilege to witness that over the course of your career. I cant wait to see what you do next. ❤️
— kate (@RacingKate) October 15, 2022
It's been an honor and pleasure to watch you race your way into NASCAR and become an LV Champion. Vegas Proud. Really, LV's first pro championship came from You. So many memories, so many battles, so many smiles, You made your mark. Get better, be well, hope to see you soon.
— Micah Roberts (@MicahRoberts7) October 15, 2022
congrats on a great career and i wish u the best on future endeavors
— Jason_4️⃣8️⃣_9️⃣_🎃 (@CorvettRacing48) October 15, 2022
Naturally, many fans were devastated at the news. They all said that he will be sorely missed in the community and congratulated him for his long and successful career. They were all thrilled that he was the first to deliver a NASCAR Cup Series title to the city of Las Vegas. In many people’s minds, he left an indelible mark on the sport.
Thanks a lot @NASCAR. Losing amazing drivers because of your shit car. Bravo. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 https://t.co/tLLB6PyPP5
— Kim Danielle (@KimDanielleXOXO) October 15, 2022
I'm glad Kurt Busch is prioritizing his health but damn I'm going to miss seeing him on track and I hope he can finish on his own terms in a few races somehow and not go out because of #NASCAR and its crappy ass car and parts.
One hell of a career and redemption story. https://t.co/85BRSnyPSv pic.twitter.com/i5Y1i0FpAR
— Nathan Platt (@nathanplatt) October 15, 2022
NASCAR is forcing a champion to retire. This is inching closer to the nightmare scenario https://t.co/UIsAXD8Poz
— Alfa (@AlfaM_37) October 15, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Nascar next gen, ending careers of the previous gen. Sad day.
— Mikey D (@SpotterMikeyD) October 15, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
On the other end of the scale, there were plenty of people who were mad at the NASCAR Next Gen car. According to them, the lax attitude toward driver safety has forced his full-time retirement. One thing is for sure, they will now be pushing the drivers to demand for more thought towards driver safety. This is imperative on the back of injuries to Alex Bowman and Cody Ware as well.
WATCH THIS STORY: From Chase Elliott To Kurt Busch: 5 Times The Next-Gen Cup Series Car Proved How Unsafe It Is